Backpacking or traveling in Maldives?

• Close to greater India you will find the small, delicate and special Maldives. The area of 1,200 (‼) islands is hugely vulnerable to the effects of climate change, as most of the islands are less than 1.5 m above sea level. Want to go there? Then visit before it's too late. 
• The Maldives is known as a luxury destination, with many expensive resorts and even private islands - these are the resort islands. So these are particularly suitable for the traveler who wants a beach vacation and has a sizable budget. For backpackers, the local islands, such as Maafushi and Thulusdhoo, are more interesting because here you can find cheaper accommodation and dining options. It is also more sustainable travel because the money goes directly to the people instead of international resorts and here you can enjoy the local experience and get to know the Maldivian culture better. 
• Activity spotting: island hopping to discover different parts of the country, beautiful diving and snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, dolphin cruises, tasting local delicacies, enjoying the beach, visiting local markets. 
• Animal spotting: think sea life especially. Whale sharks, manta rays, coral reefs with lots of tropical fish, dolphins, sharks, fruit bats, sea eagles.

Studying in Maldives?

• There are limited opportunities to study in the Maldives, the universities are quite young and you will find mostly undergraduate programs. Popular fields of study, due to the country's location, are marine biology, tourism, environmental science and education. So if you are interested in these, studying in the Maldives is a unique opportunity. 
• Study city: Male. 
• Language: English, it is accessible so!

Internship in Maldives?

• Because of the economy and location, internships in tourism (all kinds of aspects, from cuisine to HR) and marine research/nature conservation are particularly popular. Medical internships are also possible. 
• Competencies: hospitality, service, ecological monitoring, data analysis, customer orientation, promotional skills, intercultural communication, logistics and planning.

Doing volunteer work in Maldives?

• In terms of internships, you can particularly go into marine conservation, such as protection of whale sharks or sea turtles and coral reef restoration. 

Work in Maldives?

• The greatest chance of getting a job is in the tourism/hospitality industry in one of the large resorts. Think kitchen staff, engineers, housekeeping, diving or surf instructor, HR, or working in a Spa. There are also jobs in marine conservation, often in partnership with resorts. 
• Usually you work 6 days a week and have one day off per week. Often with a diverse team from different countries, which makes for a dynamic, multicultural work environment.

Working as a digital nomad in Maldives?

• The Maldives is a paradise challenge for digital nomads. Life is beautiful, but expensive and the Internet is not that good. You do find a large expat community, but you can whistle for parties with alcohol, as alcohol is prohibited.  

Living in Maldives?

• The Maldives is known as a beautiful archipelago. As a paradise for the rich in the world. As the picture on postcards. But don't be mistaken, this does not say everything about the Maldives. The Maldives is also a strict Muslim country, and if you are not in one of the golden cages, you are probably in an extremely densely populated island. Living there is not the same as vacationing there! 
• The people are incredibly friendly and helpful, life is generally relaxed and stress-free, and there is a large expat community that organizes many activities. You can also learn a lot about the culture and Muslim community and enjoy the marine life. 
• But... it can be quite bureaucratic, life is expensive and there are strict rules on the local islands (such as no wearing bikinis, no alcohol). 
• Health insurance: medical facilities are limited. The only good hospitals can be found in Male and Hulhumale. If you need specific, extensive care then you often have to go to India or Sri Lanka. Make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.

Stories, tips and experiences from Maledives